The purpose of this descriptive study was to survey how college-aged students describe voices with different characteristics and severities. This study aimed to build a common understanding of descriptor words used to describe different voices in hopes of improving relationships among speech-language pathologists with other health care professionals and the public. Fifteen participants listened to 10 voice samples of varying ages, genders, and voice disorder severities. Participants were asked a series of demographic questions, followed by questions about each of the voice samples. Results were analyzed using wordclouds.com to extract the top 3 adjectives used to describe each voice sample’s vocal quality and perceived personality of the speaker. Many participants had negative perceptions of voices from older adults and those with more severe voice disorders. Strong terminology was used amongst many of the participants. Further research, including a broader range of participant age and gender, as well as more diverse voice samples, is necessary.
